News
[OPINION] IYC ODI CONVENTION 2024: A Call For The Review Of Option A4 Electoral System

First, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the 9th National Executive Council (NEC) of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), ably led by Sir Jonathan Olokpobiri Snr, for achieving what many considered impossible over the years. Their commitment and diligence have resulted in a successful constitution review convention, held in Odi, Bayelsa State.
I also thank God for the peaceful conduct of the convention and extend my sympathy to the Abuja Chapter accident victims. We thank God that no live was lost, and I wish those injured a speedy recovery.
While it is heartwarming to see the Council beginning to function with the spirit and letters of this new constitution, I must raise concerns about the adoption of the Option A4 voting method for electing officers at all levels. For those unfamiliar with the term Option A4, it simply means delegates physically queuing behind their preferred aspirants in an election. Though this method was endorsed at the Odi Convention, I believe its implications require further scrutiny.
READ ALSO:OPINION: Portable, Queens And Badenoch Badmouth Matters
Proponents of Option A4 argue that it will reduce the financial cost of running for an electoral office and curb monetization of the Council’s elections. While these points have merit, we must consider the peculiarities of the Ijaw people and the potential risks of this method.
The history of election-based violence, such as the chaos at Abuloma that claimed lives, underscores the perils of public voting methods. If open-secret ballots, which offer a semblance of privacy, could provoke threats and violence, how much more an entirely open process like Option A4?
We should not contest the fact that Option A4 would further fan the flames of emotional outbursts, intimidation, and retaliation. For instance, if an aspirant sees a delegate who had received money from him standing behind an opponent, it could lead to violence or something worse.
Furthermore, the claim that Option A4 will reduce monetization of the Council’s elections is not entirely true. Aspirants may now feel compelled to invest more heavily in securing delegates’ loyalty, leading to increased financial pressures rather than alleviating them.
READ ALSO: Nigeria: The Absence Of Commonsense[OPINION]
Again, as an institution operating within the framework of democratic principles, the IYC must align with global best practices that prioritize voter privacy and post-election harmony. In no sane society, even in classroom elections for a class captain, is a voting method that compromises secrecy adopted. The sanctity of the ballot is crucial for safeguarding the bond among members after elections. Whoever a delegate or voter chooses to support should remain confidential, known only to them and their conscience, without fear of scrutiny or retaliation.
On a positive note, I commend the correction made touching the term “Secretary General,” which was erroneously used instead of “National Secretary.” This adjustment reflects progress in addressing wrong appellations in the Council.
In the spirit of comradeship, I urge all stakeholders to critically review the Option A4 system for the safety and progress of the Council. A sustainable electoral framework that balances transparency, fairness, and security is essential for our collective advancement.
Icon-James Tam
Former Parliamentarian & Former ZECO Secretary, IYC Western Zone
News
Shatta Wale Bailed Burna Boy From Ghana Prison After Arrest For Smoking Weed – Captan

Ghanian singer, Captan, has claimed that his former record label boss, Shatta Wale, once bailed Nigerian singer Burna Boy out of prison in Ghana after he was allegedly arrested for smoking weed.
Speaking in a recent podcast interview, Captan claimed that Shatta Wale sent him and others to free Burna Boy from police custody.
He also claimed that Shatta Wale and his group once accommodated Burna Boy when he was being hunted by some dangerous men.
READ ALSO: Wale Edun Opens Up After Sack
Captan said, “I once bailed Burna Boy out of prison in Ghana when he was arrested for smoking weed. Shatta Wale sent me and some guys to go and free him from police custody.
“There was a time we also accommodated him when some people were after his life. We helped him settle the case.”
He added that he and Burna Boy are no longer in good terms after the Nigerian artist’s fallout with his mentor, Shatta Wale.
He, however, said he and Shatta Wale are open to reconciling with Burna Boy if he asks for it.
Watch the video here
News
Children’s Day: Chaos At Ogbe Stadium As Dozens Faint

Chaos erupted on Wednesday during the Children’s Day celebration as dozens of students reportedly collapsed following a stampede triggered by the use of pepper spray.
The event,
organised by the Edo State Ministry of Education at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium was disrupted after some male students of Ihogbe College allegedly made uncompromising advances towards female students at the venue.
A parent who identified himself as Oboh Emmanuel said, “the behaviour of those uncultured students attracted the attention of bouncers stationed at the stadium as they rebuked the male students.”
Oboh said the affected students later regrouped and attacked the bouncers, leading to a confrontation within the crowded arena.
READ ALSO:Children’s Day: Edo Commits To Child Protection
It was gathered that in the ensuing confusion, the bouncers were reported to have deployed pepper spray in an area occupied by a large number of students.
Several students, particularly female students, reportedly fainted after inhaling the substance, while others sustained injuries after being stepped on during the ensuing melee.
The panic was said to have spread across the stadium as students, teachers and parents scampered for safety.
Many of the affected students were reportedly rushed to the Edo Specialist Hospital for medical attention.
READ ALSO: Egor LG Chair, Ogbemudia, Vice, Osawe Impeached
Reacting to the incident, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr Patrick Ebojele, said the security personnel that fired the tear gas had been detained.
He said all the students, except two, that were rushed to the hospital have been discharged.
Ebojele stated that doctors wanted to observe the students till tomorrow before allowing them to go home.
“The two students are not seriously injured. Doctors want to observe them overnight. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education is still at the hospital. The man who used pepper spray has been detained.
“The incident did not happen the way it is being exaggerated. All modalities were put in place to ensure the children enjoyed their day.”
News
Okpebholo Salutes Edo Muslims, Seeks Continued Support, Prayers

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has urged Muslims and all Nigerians to continue to pray for peace, unity and progress in the country even as they celebrate the annual Eid-al-Adha
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, stated this during the annual Eid-al-Adha celebration with Muslim faithfuls held at Government House in Benin City.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity and equal opportunities for all citizens irrespective of religion and tribe.
READ ALSO:ADC Penetrates Okpebholo’s District As Defections Strengthen Party in Edo Central
According to him, the present administration remains determined to building a government that reflects the diversity of Edo State, noting that competent and qualified Muslims have continued to play vital roles in his government because of their capacity, integrity and commitment to service.
“As a government, we remain committed to fairness, inclusivity and equal opportunity for every Edo citizen, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation. This is why quality and competent Muslims are serving in key positions in our administration.”
Okpebholo appreciated the Muslim community in Edo State for their unwavering support and continuous prayers for his administration, noting that such prayers and support have contributed immensely to the peace and steady development being witnessed across the state.
READ ALSO:Okpebholo Felicitates Muslims On Eid-el-Fitr Celebration
He then called on all Nigerians to use the occasion of Eid-al-Adha to pray for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that the country needs collective prayers, unity and cooperation to overcome its present economic and security challenges.
“I urge all Muslims and indeed all Nigerians to use this occasion to pray for our dear nation and for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Nigeria needs our collective prayers, unity and support as we strive to overcome our challenges and build a more prosperous future for all.”
In his remarks, the Chief Imam of Edo State, Abdulfatai Enabulele, applauded the governor for what he described as remarkable developmental strides recorded in less than two years in office.
The cleric commended the administration for ongoing infrastructural development and efforts geared towards improving governance in the state, but appealed to the government to revisit and complete some abandoned projects inherited from the previous administration for the benefit of the people.
Metro5 days agoMy Husband Abandoned Me On Our Wedding Night To Attend Political Meeting, I Want Our Marriage Dissolved
Headline4 days agoWoman Passes Out After Receiving 100 Strokes Of Cane
Headline4 days agoJUST IN: White House Locked Down Briefly As Gunman Opens Fire At Security Checkpoint
Politics3 days agoTwo Masked Men Gun Down Politician In His Rivers State Hotel
Politics5 days agoWarri Ijaw Hail INEC Delineation Report, Call For Additional Electoral Wards, Others
News5 days agoAlleged Terrorism: Court Rejects Defendant’s Bid To Travel Abroad
Metro5 days agoMy Wife Stop Cooking My Food, Beats Me Black And Blue All the Time, Man Tells Court
News3 days agoMore Pain For Nigerians As Cooking Gas Price Increases Nationwide
Politics5 days agoWhat I’ll Do As President Of Nigeria — Amaechi
Politics3 days ago‘Tinubu’s Borrowing In 24 Months Surpasses 55 Years’ Debt Record’














